OCT-NOV 97 - HOME

Finding Freedom
Writings from Death Row

Finding Freedom is a deeply moving, life-affirming mem-oir written from the nether world of San Quentin's Death Row. Offering us stories that are sometimes sad, funny, poignant, revelatory, frightening, soul-stirring, painful, and uplifting, Jarvis Masters traces his remarkable spiritual growth in an environment where despair and death are constant companions. His book is a testament to the tenacity of the human spirit and the talent of a fine writer.

-Robert Allen, Senior Editor The Black Scholar; co-editor Brotherman: he Odyssey of Black Men in America

In Finding Freedom:Writings from Death Row we meet Jarvis, meditating on a folded blanket in his cell, on San Quentin's Death Row. His voice comes to us from the belly of the beast-it is a voice that has turned from violence and anger to love, spiritual activism, and nonviolent conflict-resolution. As he brings his warrior spirit to the practice of Tibetan Buddhism, he makes connections with fellow prisoners, guards, and friends around the world, in a place designed to sever all connection. And, as he finds some measure of freedom inside a maximum security prison, he teaches me how to find freedom in my unfenced life.

-Susan Moon, Editor, Turning Wheel: Journal of the Buddhist Peace Fellowship

In this book, Jarvis Masters demonstrates how to enter the path to liberation. Against great odds, he has made the commitment to refrain from harsh responses and harmful actions. He has found the basic goodness of his own true nature and extended his intention to benefit others."

-His Eminence Chagdud Tulku Rinpoche, from the Afterword

Jarvis Masters' writing reflects the transformation he has undergone since receiving the death penalty, his burgeoning Buddhist practice, and his growing capacity to integrate that practice with insight and compassion into his life on Death Row. In the heat of the current debate on racism in the U.S. penal system, Masters' calm perspective has earned him respect and a growing reputation as a powerful writer. His book reminds us that the quest for true justice and freedom begins with the recognition of the essential humanity in every person, black or white, prisoner or guard.

Finding Freedom: Writings from Death Row ($12.00; ISBN #1-881847-08-X) is available in bookstores or can be ordered directly from Padma Publishing, P.0. Box 279, Junction City, California 96048, (916) 623-2714. Booksellers may place orders through Bookpeople Distributors. For further Information contact: Conny Lindley at (541) 846-6160; fax (541) 846-7847; e-mail: conny@magick.net

OCT-NOV 97 -- HOME -- Archives -- Electrons to the Editor